For
two terrible years, the American Revolution seemed doomed. Only the
determination of Washington and the endurance of his soldiers kept the
Cause alive. On Christmas 1776, they would gamble everything and win
undying glory.

From
Chapter 6: “Darkest Hour”:
It was a terrible night. Wind, sleet, and snow lashed the men in the
boats.
Ice chunks filled the river, slowing the crossing and putting the plan
hours behind schedule. The commanders of the two southern forces turned
back, assuming that Washington would do the same. But Washington's iron
will kept his troops moving. By 3:00 A.M., his men were ashore and
marching
south. Many of the soldiers wore only rags on their feet and left
bloody
footprints in the snow. The snow turned to rain, soaking the men and
rendering
their muskets useless except as clubs or handles for bayonets. Many of
the officers were deeply discouraged, believing that the army was about
to die in the final battle of a doomed cause. They were completely and
gloriously wrong.